Undergraduate Research Initiative

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We're here to support you! We may be working remotely but we're still "here" to provide you with the services that you need.

Please go to the COVID-19 (novel Coronavirus) Information page for the university's latest updates.

Warming up for Winter Term

The fall semester may be wrapping up, but there are many steps you can be taking now to jumpstart your undergraduate research plans for the new year. 

Finishing a fall semester project? 

If you’ve been working on a research project this fall, here are some next steps you might want to consider as you are wrapping up your research:

Learn how to write an undergraduate research abstract

Whether you’re applying for funding for your research, publishing your work, or presenting at a conference, putting your best foot forward starts with a strong research abstract. In this seminar, you'll learn what information is essential for a strong abstract, and how to use your abstract to generate excitement and enthusiasm for your research.

Virtual Session: Learn how to write an undergraduate research abstract 
Wednesday, January 13 (12:05-12:50 pm)
Tuesday, January 19 (4:05-4:50 pm)
Register here

Submit your abstract to present at FURCA 2021 (deadline Jan 27, 2021)

The Festival of Undergraduate Research & Creative Activities (FURCA) is URI’s annual showcase of student research from across all disciplines. FURCA will take place virtually from March 9-11, 2021.  We invite abstracts from students in all disciplines who have completed any type of undergraduate research project. Abstract submissions will open in early December, and the deadline for abstracts is Wednesday, January 27, 2021. Learn more about FURCA and watch for updates.

Nominate your mentor for recognition (deadline Feb 5, 2021)
The URI Mentor Award is a student-nominated award recognizing faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and staff, who go above and beyond in support of undergraduate research.  If you’ve had a terrific undergraduate research experience, submit a nomination for your mentor by February 5, 2021.

Looking ahead for summer research opportunities?

If you’re thinking about getting involved in summer research, now is the time to act!  Many professors fill their summer research positions by the end of fall term, in time for summer funding deadlines which approach quickly in the winter term. 

Book an advising appointment with URI
URI can assist you with exploring your research interests, identifying potential professors, and navigating the process of connecting with a supervisor. URI advisors are available throughout the final exam period (until December 24) for advising appointments. Schedule an appointment, or email us with your availability.
Attend our Getting Started in Research seminar

This live online session will introduce you to the process of getting started in research, from finding opportunities, to reaching out to professors.

Thursday, January 7, 2021 (12:35-1:20 pm)
Register here

Explore your funding options
Many funding programs for summer research have deadlines early in the New Year. Don’t miss a deadline!  Check out URI’s Apply For Funding page for information about funding programs, and be sure to review the funding program websites for deadlines and instructions for applicants.

Upcoming Events

Contact Us

Location: 2-701 SUB - temporarily closed

URI staff are available Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. for remote services, including email, phone, or Google Hangout. Email uri@ualberta.ca to access remote services.

Note: The URI will be closed for Winter Break from December 25-Jan 3. URI staff will continue providing services remotely during the winter term, resuming Monday, January 4th.

Phone: 780-492-3474
Email: uri@ualberta.ca